Episode 137: How to Take Care of Yourself - Make Time For Art Insight #6 with Guest Devon Bennett

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In episode 137 of Medium Lady Talks we continue the How to Take Care of Yourself series, I'm joined by surface designer and illustrator Devon Bennett of PencilsnParsley. Together, we explore how making something just for the joy of it — no fancy supplies, no pressure — can be a powerful form of creative self-care.

Devon reminds us that you don't have to be an artist to start creating. You don't even have to look at your finished piece! It's about the process, not the outcome — and it's in that process that you’ll often find clarity, calm, and emotional release.

We cover:

• Devon’s early creative spark with her self-published childhood comic Oh Corncob!

• Why Devon recommends Find Your Artistic Voice by Lisa Congdon to anyone rediscovering their creativity

• How creating without judgment builds emotional resilience and strengthens self-trust

• Devon’s practice of using art to process anxiety — and how she even brings her drawings to therapy sessions

• The magic of starting with what you have — just set a timer, grab whatever supplies are nearby, and get messy!

• The importance of practicing non-judgment when making art (and why progress is happening, even when you can’t see it)

• One of Devon’s favorite mottos: "The only wasted paint is what's left in the tube."

• How Devon approaches resistance to creativity with compassion, not criticism

• Why Devon's positive affirmation sticker series is all about encouragement and gentle growth

• Final advice on how to make time for creativity even in busy seasons — and the reminder that there are multiple ways to be consistent.

Plus, I share one of my favorite quotes from Gretchen Rubin:

"A thing that can be done anytime is often done at no time."
— a gentle nudge to carve out a little time for creativity today.

✨ Resources & Links Mentioned:

• Find Devon’s work, stickers, and art for sale: PencilsnParsley.com

• Support Devon’s creative journey on Patreon

• Follow Devon’s playful art adventures on YouTube Shorts

• Book rec: Find Your Artistic Voice by Lisa Congdon

🎨 Whether you’re picking up a pen, a paintbrush, or just letting your imagination wander, this episode will remind you: You’re allowed to make something messy. You’re allowed to create without needing it to be perfect. And in doing so, you’re taking care of yourself.

Looking for more support? Access exclusive content and mindful living tools on Patreon.

Join the conversation! Share one need you're naming today and tag @medium.lady on Instagram.

The series starts here! Episode 131: Why is Taking Care of Yourself So Hard?

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Other Related Episodes (for your enjoyment):

Episode 132: How To Take Care of Yourself Insight #1 - Say YES to Help

Episode 133: How To Take Care of Yourself Insight #2 - Name your Needs

Episode 134: How To Take Care of Yourself Insight #3 - Stay Curious

Episode 135: How to Take Care of Yourself Insight #4 - Celebrate Yourself

Episode 136: How to Take Care of Yourself Insight #5 - Take Your Meds (and Maybe Also Go to Therapy)

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